DIZZINESS AND BALANCE TEST

AN EVALUATION OF THE VESTIBULAR SYSTEM

VESTIBULAR EVALUATION

a test for balance disorders and dizziness

Do you or a loved one ever experience dizziness, vertigo or imbalance? The answer might be a problem in the inner ear structures responsible for balance. A videonystagmography test (VNG) looks at the inner ear balance structures. The VNG helps determine the source of the problem and recommended treatment.

Prior to starting the VNG test, the audiologist will take an extensive case history. Otoscopy (looking in the ears) and immittance testing (assessment of middle ear status). In addition, a diagnostic audiologic evaluation (hearing test) is conducted to help determine total inner ear function.

THE VNG TEST

During the VNG test, you will be wearing goggles. The goggles contain cameras that record a video of your eye movement, called nystagmus. The VNG test is comprised of:

Ocular Motor Testing: You will follow a visual target through a series of tasks. Your eye movement will be tracked. This tests provides insight into the central or neurological balance system. a moving light, moving in different positions, and putting air into each of your ears.

Positional Testing: The Audiologist will position you through dynamic (Dix-Hallpike) and static positions. The positions are similar to performing a sit up or laying down in bed. Modifications can be made for patients with limited neck mobility or experience neck, back or abdominal pain. Positional testing identifies Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) as well as peripheral (vestibular system) or central disorders.

Caloric Testing: During the final portion, the audiologist uses different air temperatures to stimulate your acoustic nerve (VIII nerve) and lateral semicircular canal. This test compares each inner ear vestibular system for function and balance.

VESTIBULAR EVALUATION

a test for balance disorders and dizziness

Do you or a loved one ever experience dizziness, vertigo or imbalance? The answer might be a problem in the inner ear structures responsible for balance. A videonystagmography test (VNG) looks at the inner ear balance structures. The VNG helps determine the source of the problem and recommended treatment.

Prior to starting the VNG test, the audiologist will take an extensive case history. Otoscopy (looking in the ears) and immittance testing (assessment of middle ear status). In addition, a diagnostic audiologic evaluation (hearing test) is conducted to help determine total inner ear function.

THE VNG TEST

During the VNG test, you will be wearing goggles. The goggles contain cameras that record a video of your eye movement, called nystagmus. The VNG test is comprised of:

Ocular Motor Testing: You will follow a visual target through a series of tasks. Your eye movement will be tracked. This tests provides insight into the central or neurological balance system. a moving light, moving in different positions, and putting air into each of your ears.

Positional Testing: The Audiologist will position you through dynamic (Dix-Hallpike) and static positions. The positions are similar to performing a sit up or laying down in bed. Modifications can be made for patients with limited neck mobility or experience neck, back or abdominal pain. Positional testing identifies Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) as well as peripheral (vestibular system) or central disorders.

Caloric Testing: During the final portion, the audiologist uses different air temperatures to stimulate your acoustic nerve (VIII nerve) and lateral semicircular canal. This test compares each inner ear vestibular system for function and balance.